Kate Middleton and Prince William (Getty Images)
Why should the Brits have all the fun? If you can't make it across the pond, or didn't score an invite (we're still waiting on ours) to Will and Kate's April 29 nuptials, here are a few ways to bring a little of the Royal Wedding to you.
PRINCESS PARTIES
Thursday, April 28
Try on tiaras and other jewels while toasting the happy couple with Champagne and cupcakes at "A Princess Party" hosted by Mystique Jewelers (211 The Strand Waterfront, Alexandria). 5 to 8. RSVP at Event Brite.
PLAN YOUR OWN ROYAL WEDDING
Thursday, April 28
The bridal salon Hitched is hosting an English Garden Cocktail Party with special guest Shira Savada, a Martha Stewart Wedding expert. She'll share tips and trends, while brides-to-be can browse a collection from Washington vendors such as Ritzy Bee Events, Kate Headley Photography, Design Cuisine, and more. E-mail RSVP@hitchedsalon.com to attend. 6 to 8 PM.
Planning your own big day? Have (almost) as big a budget as Will and Kate? Then check out the Ritz-Carlton's Royal Wedding Experience. Couples can plan their wedding with award-winning coordinator Amal Zaari; the wedding party and guests will receive personal shopping sprees at Carine's Bridal and Saks Fifth Avenue; and the hotel will be transformed into Westminster Abbey. Plus, the bride gets a tiara and custom sapphire-and-diamond engagement ring. For more details, call the Ritz-Carlton, Washington DC (202-835-0500).
HIGH TEA, ROYAL COCKTAILS
Thursday, April 28
ChariTeaParty (1824 R St., NW) is hosting "A Royal Wedding Charity Tea and Dessert Party." A donation to the Centrepoint Homeless Youth Service, one of Prince William's charities of choice, is required. 8 to 11.
Peacock Cafe is holding a Royal Wedding cocktail party. Dress up (hats are encouraged), sip British-inspired cocktails, and have your photo snapped by Shoot for Change. Ticket sales ($40) will benefit the Capital Breast Care Center; purchase them at EventBrite. 6:30 to 10.
Tuesday, April 26, through Friday, April 29
The British Pantry, with locations in Aldie (41153 John Mosby Hwy.; 703-327-3215) and Alexandria (110 S. Columbus St.; 703-548-1173), is hosting teas in honor of the wedding. Both locations are giving away commemorative wedding memorabilia, so you can score a "Will & Kate" plate, thimble, and dish towel without the airfare to London. $25 a person; call to make a reservation.
WATCH PARTIES
Friday, April 29
The Ritz-Carlton in Georgetown is hosting a breakfast viewing party beginning at 5 AM for $40. Enjoy a breakfast buffet with English specialties—scones and clotted cream, anyone?—while watching the London festivities on a flat-screen TV. Wear your best Mother Queen hat for a chance to win prizes.
WEDDING CAKE SPECIALS
Georgetown Cupcake will have a "Royal Dozen" cupcakes shipped to your door. The flavors are Lava Fudge, Vanilla Birthday, and the standout Red Velvet. $39.95 per dozen, plus a $20 handling fee; available at the TLC Store's Web site.
In addition to the current menu of British-gastropub fare, Againn is serving mini wedding cakes. Proceeds from the cake sales go to Peace Players International-Northern Ireland, the local charity Will and Kate have decided to support.
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